What is Turbinoplasty?

Turbinoplasty:   It is a surgical procedure done for reducing the swelling (the size of turbinates) present on the sidewall of the nasal passages.

Turbinates are shelves like structures on the inner walls of the nose on either side of the nasal septum. These structures have thin bone covered with soft tissue and mucous membrane.

Normally turbinates swell and shrink to keep the air warm in the nasal passages. This process continues alternatively between the nasal passages every few hours. The problem arises when turbinates’ swell significantly causing blockage of air through nasal passages. Individuals experiencing this condition have a feeling of nasal blockage.

What are the indications for Turbinoplasty?

Turbinoplasty is recommended if other treatments have not provided any relief to manage the symptoms associated with swollen turbinates. It may be combined with septoplasty or endoscopic sinus surgery if needed.

Doctors recommend turbinoplasty for enlarged turbinates and allergic rhinitis.

When intranasal steroids and antihistamines have failed to offer any relief from persistent allergic rhinitis, turbinoplasty may be recommended and it is very effective as well. However, intranasal steroids along with turbinoplasty show excellent results in controlling allergic rhinitis.

Preparing for Turbinoplasty

Dr Neetu Modgil will ask you questions regarding all the issues you may have pertaining to your nose. You might need to have an endoscopy and other tests, and investigations for allergies.

Turbinoplasty Procedure

A Turbinoplasty surgery is generally performed with general anaesthesia and done through the nasal passage without any external incisions.

An ENT doctor uses an endoscope along with other specialized instruments to reduce the bulk of the turbinates. The procedure will take up to 40 to 50 minutes.

Radiofrequency or laser ablation

Doctors use a laser or radiofrequency energy to reduce turbinate size and swelling. It is another approach for the reduction of turbinates.

What can you expect after a Turbinoplasty?

The objective of turbinoplasty is to reduce the size of the turbinates – reshape or reposition and to increase air volume through the nose when a person breathes in. At the same time, doctors also try to preserve the normal turbinate function as much as possible.

After the procedure, you will not experience any pain or external bruising. You will be discharged the same day. The nasal packs will be removed within a day or two after the procedure.

 You may feel nasal congestion for up to four to five weeks after surgery – and then feel normal afterwards. Though the surgery is done to improve breathing, experiencing nasal congestion post-surgery is normal.

Turbinoplasty Recovery

You may experience mild nasal drainage, stiffness, pain and fatigue after the procedure. Pain medication will help in controlling mild pain associated with the surgery. Stuffiness and swelling start to get better after 7 to 8 days of surgery. During the normal course of the healing process, it is normal to notice blood and mucus draining out.

It would be better if you follow your doctor’s instructions and come for follow up visits. This will help in detecting any post-operative complications and assessing your progress.

Book your appointment now to consult Dr Neetu Modgil.